If you’ve been doing any reading about the Social Security disability claim process, you’ve probably already heard about vocational experts and analysts.

What you might not know is that the two roles aren’t interchangeable; you’re more likely to encounter one than the other in certain situations, and the function each performs is different.

Vocational Analyst

The vocational analyst may have a more important role with your initial application. Chances are, this is a professional who will work with your assigned disability examiner at Disability Determination Services (DDS).

Analysts are specialized disability examiners who are directly employed by the SSA to consult with regular claims examiners. The analyst will examine your ability to work based on your prior employment record, your medical condition, and your education.This is why it is important to complete your work history form accurately.

In complicated claims, the analyst will work closely with your assigned disability examiner and the Department of Labor’s Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) to determine if he or she feels you are able to perform any type of job.

Vocational Expert

On the other hand, the vocational expert (VE) serves as an expert witness contracted by Social Security to testify at your disability claim appeal hearing. The judge will ask the VE hypothetical questions about an individual with your limitations, transferable skills, as well as your capacity for returning to the sort of work you used to do or a new job.

Your hearing has a better chance of being successful if you are working with a legal professional who knows how to cross examine the VE. If you want to know more, talk with a dedicated Omaha disability benefits attorney at Cuddigan Law. Call 402-933-5405 or email [email protected] today. When you call be sure to ask how to receive a FREE copy of our report, Give Yourself the Best Chance of Winning Your Social Security Disability Case.